Is a UV filter really needed on a DSLR??

beantown

Senior Member
First off, Mods if this is in the wrong place please move it for me.

I have read conflicting articles on the need of a UV filter on a modern DSLR. I always used to run a UV filter on my film cameras. Reading articles about the use of one on a DSLR, most state the sensor isn't sensitive to UV. So what's the general consensus on this? I have a Hoya Alpha 52mm UV on my 24mm and would like to purchase another for the 50mm I just bought, for the protection alone. So is a UV filter really necessary? Or should I just buy the Nikon NC for it.

Thanks in advance,
Shane
 

BF Hammer

Senior Member
Not needed. I used to feel obligated to use them as protection. I stopped using them years ago. Use the lens hood instead. Buy a hood if needed. They will help a bit with flares where a uv filter can only catch extra dust or fog to be cleaned off.

I have polarizers, neutral density, and an astrophotography light pollution filter instead. UV filters are stored in a box and pretty much forgotten now.

ps: It's not that camera sensors are not sensitive to UV, but there already is a filter glass for UV and IR installed in front of the sensor. An astro-modified camera will have that filter removed with clear glass installed (or nothing). The idea is to get any light possible emitted from your target collected in an exposure.
 
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Woodyg3

Senior Member
Contributor
If you are shooting something like motocross events and mud or rocks might be tossed your way, then the protection of a UV filter might help. For the most part they aren't really needed and could, in some cases, degrade the image a tiny bit.

Here is an informative and fun to watch video on this topic by Steve Perry if you are interested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0CLPTd6Bds
 

beantown

Senior Member
If you are shooting something like motocross events and mud or rocks might be tossed your way, then the protection of a UV filter might help. For the most part they aren't really needed and could, in some cases, degrade the image a tiny bit.

Here is an informative and fun to watch video on this topic by Steve Perry if you are interested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0CLPTd6Bds

Thank you Woody. What Sparky and Hammer posted pretty much verified what I had thought. I would like to protect the end of the lens a little more. A Nikon NC looks to be a good option considering an HR-2 is virtually unavailable right now. It's always good to get a second opinion in my book, and I thank you for responding!
 
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